When planning a trip to Europe, destinations like Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich are not often at the top of travelers' lists, but they offer a mix of old-world charm and modern luxury that's hard to find elsewhere. These cities are known for their rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, some of the best luxury hotels in Europe. Our travel advisor, Lenni recently visited all three cities, checking out top hotels and discovering hidden gems that make for an unforgettable vacation.
VIENNA
Vienna is a dream for travelers looking to explore a city with grand palaces, world-class museums, chic coffee houses and beautiful streets perfect for strolling. Whether you’re visiting the famous palaces or shopping in Old Town, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
Getting There: From Vienna Airport, you can take a quick 16-minute train ride to the city center. Prefer a more relaxed ride? A taxi or private driver will take about 25-30 minutes. Once you’re there, you’ll notice how clean and safe the city feels. And don’t worry about dressing up too much—the weather is mild at night, so a tank top and pants will do just fine!
Important Note: Shops are usually closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping trips for another day!
Luxury Hotels in Vienna’s City Center
Rosewood Vienna
Located in the heart of Vienna’s Old Town, this hotel is ideal for those who want to be close to top attractions, luxury shopping, and the city's rich history. With 100 elegantly designed rooms and suites, the Rosewood Vienna is one of the best luxury hotels in Vienna for travelers who appreciate both comfort and style.
Family-Friendly Suites: The hotel offers several options for families, including rooms with connecting options that can create spacious suites. Perfect for families with young kids, this is a top choice for those seeking family-friendly hotels in Vienna.
Nearby Attractions: A 10-minute walk takes you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Sacher Café, the Vienna State Opera, and luxury shopping along Kärntner Straße.
Hotel Bristol Vienna
This iconic hotel, with views of the Vienna Opera House, offers a mix of historical charm and modern luxury. The Bristol Suite is ideal for travelers who want to stay close to the city's cultural hub while enjoying a luxurious experience.
Tip: If you're a history enthusiast, you’ll love knowing the Presidential Suite was once home to the U.S. Embassy after World War II.
The Ritz-Carlton Vienna
Location: Just a 10-minute walk from the city center, this modern hotel is popular with American visitors. It combines style and convenience, with everything you need for a great stay.
Dining: Enjoy meals at their top-rated steakhouse (said to be the best in Austria) or savor Italian cuisine. Heads up—the hotel is undergoing major renovations next year, so it’ll be even better soon!
SALZBURG
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl: Day trip from Munich
Salzburg, the city of Mozart and The Sound of Music, is compact enough to explore in a day or two but rich with history and charm. Many travelers often use Salzburg as a base to explore the surrounding Austrian Alps or visit for a day trip from Munich.
If you're staying in Munich, a day trip to Salzburg is a popular option, with the train journey taking only about 1.5 hours. This makes it one of the easiest and most scenic day trips from Munich. The train offers stunning views of the Bavarian countryside, and once you arrive, Salzburg’s Old Town is just a short walk from the station.
Top Hotel in Salzburg
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl
Located just 30 minutes outside of Salzburg, this lakeside hotel is a peaceful retreat that’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing break from city life. Its proximity to Lake Wolfgang makes it a great choice for outdoor lovers who want to combine luxury with a bit of adventure.
What to Do Nearby: Explore activities like hiking or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Wolfgang, or take a day trip to Wolfgangsee for a scenic drive or boat ride. If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the nearby Christmas markets, which are a big draw for tourists and locals alike.
MUNICH
Next, Lenni headed to Munich, one of Germany’s most vibrant cities. Whether you’re here for the famous beer gardens, historic sites, or designer shopping, Munich has something for everyone.It’s also the gateway to Bavaria, making it an ideal base for travelers who want to explore nearby attractions like Neuschwanstein Castle or take day trips to Salzburg.
Rosewood Munich
Located in the heart of Munich, this hotel offers modern luxury just steps away from top attractions and high-end shopping streets. If you're looking for luxury hotels in Munich city center, the Rosewood Munich should be on your list.
Unique Feature: The hotel was once a bank, and its old vault has been converted into a speakeasy bar. If you're in the mood for a unique night out, this is the place to be. Live music is featured nightly, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.
Mandarin Oriental Munich
This five-star hotel is tucked away on a quiet street just minutes away from top attractions like Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the city’s famous beer gardens, making it the perfect spot.
The hotel has 73 rooms and suites and some come with private balconies. You’ll love waking up to views of Munich’s famous skyline, including the Frauenkirche.
The on-site restaurant, Matsuhisa Munich, is run by world-famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa and offers a unique mix of Japanese and Peruvian dishes. It’s one of the best dining experiences in Munich!
What to Do in Munich: Whether you’re here for a short stay or using Munich as a base for exploring the region, don’t miss visiting Marienplatz, the city’s central square. Many travelers also enjoy exploring Nymphenburg Palace or taking part in one of the many beer tours that make Munich famous.
Visiting Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich is more than just sightseeing; it’s about soaking in the culture and history of each place. We're here to help you explore local cafes, enjoy delicious pastries, and even join a Sound of Music tour in Salzburg. Let us handle the details so you can fully enjoy every moment of your trip. We can help you find the best accommodations and experiences. So grab your bags and reach out to us!